America First Credit Union Serving Up Another Souper Bowl of Caring

Childhood hunger is growing and the credit union is teaming up with partners across three states to help.

SALT LAKE CITY February 3, 2025 – America First Credit Union is once again teaming up with local partners as a sponsor to help fight childhood hunger in Utah, Idaho and Nevada with the Souper Bowl of Caring, which will run through early February.

“Over more than a decade, our collaboration with the Souper Bowl of Caring has become a vital part of our work to support kids and their communities,” said Dave Nellis, director of public relations at America First Credit Union. “Our team has seen first-hand how impactful the Souper Bowl is each year; it is rewarding to both see the positive impact this program has and to help facilitate donations.”

Childhood hunger is a longstanding concern in Utah, and organizations focused on the issue such as the Utah Food Bank have indicated that the problem has grown larger in recent years. As of November 2024, one in six Utah kids live in homes that do not have enough food — a statistic that was estimated to be closer to one in ten kids in the spring of last year. This food insecurity is especially difficult during weekends and school breaks, as many of these kids rely on school meals. Partners in other states have reported similar, challenging trends.

The Souper Bowl of Caring helps bridge this gap by funding meals for students to take home on weekends and during breaks to ensure that they have access to food, even when they are not at school. The organizations that receive the funds are able to maximize the value of every dollar donated. For example, in 2024, the Utah Food Bank was able to produce $7.34 worth of goods and services to children for every dollar donated. Funds are also used toward building and stocking new distribution centers and to community partners so more families and kids can access these services.

As part of the partnership, AFCU will be accepting monetary donations. Members and others can donate in several ways.

  • Online – Donate online for your state and location
  • In person – Make a deposit at a branch to account number 550281 (last name: AFCU)
  • Tune in – Watch your location’s televised event:
    • SALT LAKE: Tune in to KUTV 2 on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and call 1-877-908-0680 to donate.
    • LAS VEGAS: Tune in to KSNV News 3 on Thursday, February 6, 2025 from 6 a.m. to 11:35 p.m., and call 1-702-657-3222 to donate.
    • RENO: Tune into KRNV NBC Reno 4 or KRXI Fox 11 News on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., and donate in person or online.
    • BOISE: Tune into to KBOI-TV CBS 2 on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., and call 1-208- 472-2220 to donate.

Proceeds from donations will go to the Utah Association of Public-School Foundations, the Serving Our Kids Foundation, the Food Bank of Northern Nevada, and the Idaho Food Bank.

In 2024, America First Credit Union and its partners raised over $1.1 million for the Souper Bowl of Caring in Utah. The program originated in South Carolina in 1990, where a Sunday school teacher asked members of her congregation to donate $1 of their Super Bowl party budgets to fight hunger. The localized effort grew into a nationwide movement. KUTV Souper Bowl of Caring telethons started in 2014, and America First Credit Union has been a partner since that time through its charitable foundation. In the past decade, AFCU and Sinclair Broadcasting Group have expanded its Souper Bowl of Caring partnerships to Las Vegas, Reno, and Boise.

 

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Now in its 85th year, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah, and has 115 locations across Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. It is also the fifth largest credit union in America with more than 1.4 million members, and the seventh largest in assets with more than $20 billion. America First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution dedicated to building communities and helping members do more with their money. Learn more at americafirst.com.

MEDIA CONTACT

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606

dcnellis@americafirst.com

Souper Bowl of Caring empowers local food pantries to combat childhood hunger in Utah

 

The Souper Bowl of Caring is a national organization that partners with local hunger relief charities to fight against childhood hunger.

America First Credit Union is proud to be a long-time partner with KUTV for the Souper Bowl of Caring. Although this blitz is simultaneously taking place in various cities nationwide, the local chapters work with as many community food pantries in their area to broaden its impact. 100% of the monetary and food donations are passed along directly to these community charities.

Dave Nellis with America First Credit Union spoke to Kaime Stroot about this initiative and how people can donate.

The Souper Bowl of Caring program originated in South Carolina in 1990, where a Sunday school teacher asked members of her congregation to donate $1 of their Super Bowl party budgets to fight hunger. The localized effort grew into a nationwide movement.

KUTV’s Souper Bowl of Caring started in 2014, and America First Credit Union has been a partner since that time through the America First Charitable Foundation charitable foundation. We are now in our 12th year supporting this great cause.

Proceeds go to Utah Association of Public-School Foundations.

How you can donate:

  • Donate via mobile & online banking by transferring money to a special savings account: 5502281, last name AFCU.
  • Donate in person at any America First Credit Union branch location.
  • Donate now through one of our convenient contribution portals at americafirst.com.
  • Tune in to Channel 2 on Wednesday February 5th from 6am – 10:30pm and call 1-877-908-0680 to donate over the phone during the telethon.

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America First Credit Union Annual Meeting – 2025

In accordance with America First bylaws, the Board of Directors Nominations Committee has identified three members who will stand for election by acclamation at the credit union’s Annual Meeting on April 15, 2025.

After thorough interviews and qualification screenings, the Board candidates are:

  • Barney B. Chapman
  • Ted Maxfield
  • Kenlon Reeve

These volunteers selflessly give of their time, talent, expertise, and experience to enhance our financial well-being, and we congratulate them on their nominations.

We invite all of our members to watch the 2025 Annual Meeting live video stream by clicking the button that will be available on the day of the meeting below.

In addition, we will have a limited number of seats available to attend in person at our Operations Center in Riverdale, Utah. Reservations will be available starting April 10th 2025. Visit this page and click the reservation link below to attend in person.

America First Credit Union opens new Riverton branch

 

Public and members invited to the Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday Jan. 11th


 

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (Good Things Utah) – Big news for Riverton! The new America First Riverton Branch is open and ready to bring top-notch service and cutting-edge features to the community. This beautiful space has it all, from enhanced technology to Video Teller Machines and two drive-up lanes.

AFCU Members and the public are invited to a grand opening celebration this weekend! Come by Saturday, January 11, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., for a fun-filled Member Celebration Day with food trucks, music, and games. January only offers like $200 for new accounts and $50 for youth savings. Don’t forget, one lucky member will win a $3,000 vacation! Stop by 3583 W 12600 S, Riverton, UT, today. You’re going to love it here!

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America First Credit Union Announces Opening of New Riverton Branch

New location to replace in-store branch to better serve Riverton and surrounding communities with new technology and expanded services

RIVERTON, Utah (January 6, 2024) – America First Credit Union (AFCU) today announced the opening of its new Riverton Branch. This modern, free-standing branch replaces the Riverton Walmart Branch, which first opened in 2008, and is an extension of the growth the credit union has seen in the area as well as its continued commitment to serving members on the west side of Salt Lake County.

The Riverton Branch is designed to better serve the financial needs of the local community, which includes nearly 16,000 AFCU members and a diverse population of approximately 45,000 residents. Additionally, the branch is expected to draw traffic from neighboring communities such as Bluffdale, Herriman, South Jordan, and Draper, offering enhanced services for individuals and businesses alike.

“This new branch reflects our ongoing dedication to creating state-of-the-art financial services experiences and strengthening relationships in our community,” said Heather Flinders, Vice President, South Central Branches. “This beautiful facility will help us expand the exceptional service our members expect from America First Credit Union.”

A New Standard for Member Experience
The Riverton Branch is among AFCU’s most advanced locations, featuring innovative technology to improve member convenience and service. Highlights include:

  • Enhanced Drive-Up Features: Two drive-up lanes, and a new canopy design over video teller machines has been constructed for improved accessibility.
  • Video Teller Machines (VTMs): Traditional drive-up services have been replaced with VTMs that offer on-demand support from the Branch Remote Services Team, ensuring quick and efficient transactions.
  • Modernized Interiors: A tailored interior space has been designed for more meaningful member connections and an improved overall banking experience.

Member Celebration Day
To celebrate the new branch, AFCU will host a Member Celebration Day on Saturday, January 11, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The community is invited to enjoy food trucks, family-friendly activities, and exciting giveaways.

Exclusive New Member Offers
Special new member promotions are available at the Riverton Branch through January 31, 2025:

  • $200 for new members who establish a savings and checking account
  • $50 for new youth members (ages 8–17, Savings) who establish a teen checking account including a Fundz card
  • $50 for new youth members (ages 0–7) who establish a savings, dedicated savings, or certificate of deposit account
  • A chance to win a $3,000 Get-A-Way Today Vacation Package


Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on Friday, January 17, 2025, with AFCU representatives, community leaders, and others in attendance.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Now in its 85th year, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah, and has 115 locations across Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. It is also the fifth largest credit union in America with more than 1.4 million members, and the seventh largest in assets with more than $20 billion. America First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution dedicated to building communities and helping members do more with their money. Learn more at americafirst.com.

America First Credit Union Partners with Utah Hockey Club to Debut Exclusive Visa® Debit Card

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New card offers exclusive design and benefits for fans to kick off team partnership with America First Credit Union

SALT LAKE CITY November 13, 2024 – America First Credit Union has introduced its limited-edition Utah Hockey Club Visa® debit card — marking the first, exclusive credit union partnership with the newly established NHL franchise.

Fans can get their Utah Hockey Club debit card starting Wednesday, November 13, and enjoy exclusive benefits throughout the season.

“Our partnership with Utah Hockey Club allows us to offer valuable benefits to our members, many of whom are also members of the vibrant new community growing around this team,” said Thayne Shaffer, president and CEO at America First Credit Union. “This card is unique to this season, and we hope members will take full advantage of what it offers — especially as they take in a game at Delta Center.”

Exclusive Benefits for Cardholders:

In addition to a unique, Mountain Blue design, Utah Hockey Club Visa® debit cardholders can access a wide range of perks when attending Utah Hockey Club events at Delta Center, including:

  • 10% off concessions at Summit Snacks, Tenders, Farr’s Ice Cream, and Dippin’ Dots at Delta Center.
  • 15% off purchases at the Team Store located inside Delta Center (some exclusions may apply).
  • Early arena access – cardholders can enter Delta Center 30 minutes before doors open when they present their America First Credit Union debit card — allowing them early, relaxed access to pregame events and activities.

“We’re thrilled to partner with America First Credit Union to offer fans a debit card that connects them directly to Utah Hockey Club this season,” said Chris Barney, president of revenue and commercial at Smith Entertainment Group. “Together, we’re giving fans new ways to engage with the club and look forward to AFCU members being a part of the excitement from day one.”

In addition to the card partnership, the credit union will work with the Utah Hockey Club on community initiatives and military recognition, starting with the Our Team Service Dog project. The team has adopted a puppy that will stay with the Utah Hockey Club for two years and be supported by the credit union. Fans will see the dog at home games — which will be integral to the animal’s socialization and training as a service dog for military veterans. After two years of training, the credit union and the Utah Hockey Club will present the dog to a veteran at a game.

The Utah Hockey Club Visa debit card is available at no cost to America First members who have Classic and Premium Checking accounts. Fans can showcase their support for the team with every purchase, while continuing to enjoy the security and convenience of transacting with their America First Credit Union card — including access to over 30,000 no-fee ATMs and Visa’s global acceptance network. This limited-edition card will be available for a short time only and is a unique way to commemorate the club’s inaugural season.

For more details or to get your Utah Hockey Club Visa debit card, visit www.americafirst.com/utahhockey.

 

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About America First Credit Union

Now in its 85th year, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah, and has 115 locations across Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. It is also the fifth largest credit union in America with more than 1.4 million members, and the seventh largest in assets with more than $20 billion. America First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution dedicated to building communities and helping members do more with their money. Learn more at americafirst.com.

About Utah Hockey Club

Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) established Utah’s first-ever NHL franchise in April 2024, with the team set to debut in the 2024-25 season. With this move, SEG introduced the second “Big Four” major professional sports league to Utah for the first time in state history. To be known as Utah Hockey Club for their inaugural season, the club was established with a competitive, dynamic roster and 34 draft picks spanning their first three consecutive seasons (2024-27). The team will compete at Delta Center in downtown Salt Lake City, building on the renowned, energetic atmosphere for which Utah’s sports and entertainment scene has become known. The arena’s hockey capacity for Utah’s inaugural season is 11,131 with the option to open thousands of additional single-goal view seats for select games. For more information on Utah Hockey Club, an entity of Smith Entertainment Group, visit www.UtahHockeyClub.com.

Media Contact
Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union Director of Public Relations
801.725.8735
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Hannah Oh
for America First Credit Union
208.313.9683
hoh@intrepidagency.com

Makaelee Main
Utah Hockey Club PR
801.243.7847
makaelee.main@teamseg.com

Purple is back with the Utah Jazz Visa® debit card from America First Credit Union

America First Credit Union unveils this season’s limited-edition Utah Jazz Visa® debit card in the team’s classic Mountain Purple

SALT LAKE CITY (October 23, 2024) – America First Credit Union, the official credit union of the Utah Jazz, has released a limited-edition Utah Jazz Visa® debit card in the team’s iconic Mountain Purple — marking the return of a classic look for Jazz fans.

“Our partnership with the Utah Jazz represents a shared commitment to building vibrant, meaningful communities,” said Thayne Shaffer, president and CEO at America First Credit Union. “This latest collaboration provides unique benefits to members, and is yet another way that we’re standing alongside the Jazz as we work together to enrich the lives of Utahns both on and off the court.”

America First Credit Union has offered official Utah Jazz debit cards since 2021, with this year’s Mountain Purple design joining a collection of previously released cards in black/white, and yellow.

 

Exclusive Benefits for cardholders include:

  • Ten percent off single-game tickets, including group ticket purchases with at least 20 people.
  • Discounts on purchases at Summit Snacks, Tenders, Farr’s Ice Cream, and Dippin’ Dots inside Delta Center.
  • Fifteen percent off purchases at the Team Store, located inside Delta Center, and 32% off the day after a Jazz player records a triple-double.
  • Five percent off select skybox and suite rentals for Utah Jazz games.
  • Invitations to pre-sales for concerts and events at Delta Center.
  • Special early entry privileges up to 30 minutes before the general public on game days.
  • Opportunities to participate in post-game on-court experiences, such as on-court free throws.

America First’s partnership with the Utah Jazz extends beyond game-day excitement. Through their partnership, the Utah Jazz and America First Credit Union work together on various initiatives throughout the year, including charitable events that support the needs of the community, youth sports programs, and a small business competition.

When combined with a premium checking account from the credit union, members can unlock additional benefits, including over $135 in value for $6 per month — or for free by meeting account activity requirements; identity theft protection; mobile phone protection for accidental damage or theft; Couponz Direct, which attaches coupons to members’ loyalty cards for national retailers; and Shopping Saver, which offers deals on dining, shopping, travel, and entertainment.

For more information on how to become a member and get your exclusive Utah Jazz Visa® debit card, visit www.americafirst.com

 

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About America First Credit Union

Now in its 85th year, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah, and has 115 locations across Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. It is also the fifth largest credit union in America with more than 1.4 million members, and the seventh largest in assets with more than $20 billion. America First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution dedicated to building communities and helping members do more with their money. Learn more at americafirst.com.

 

About the Utah Jazz

Founded as the 18th member of the National Basketball Association (NBA) in 1974, and located in Salt Lake City since 1979, the Utah Jazz are committed to excellence as a team and in the community. On the court, the Jazz are the second-winningest team in the NBA over the last 30 years, having won nine division titles and two Western Conference championships along with 17 seasons of 50-plus wins, and are supported by one of the most passionate fan bases in all of sports. The Utah Jazz also operates the Junior Jazz program, the largest and longest-running youth basketball league in the NBA, featuring more than 60,000 players and an additional 13,000 volunteers who take part annually across six states. For more information on the Utah Jazz, an entity of Smith Entertainment Group, visit americafirst.com/jazz.

 

Media Contacts
Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union Director of Public Relations
801.725.8735
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Makaelee Main
Utah Jazz Public Relations
801.243.7847

Marcus Hardy
for AFCU
801.823.5534
mhardy@intrepidagency.com

 

 

America First Credit Union partners with Loquat Inc for small business account onboarding

Top 10 credit union will adopt a new small business banking platform to create a streamlined digital process for business members for digital account opening, virtual cards, payments and reporting

Ogden, Utah July 9, 2024 – America First Credit Union has selected Loquat Inc. to help enhance the onboarding experience for small business members. The partnership will equip small business owners with time-saving mobile solutions to make it easier, faster and more secure to run their business and have full control over their finances.

“We’ve seen significant small business account growth across our membership — and these members want to get up-and-running quickly,” said Karey Thomas SVP of branch delivery at America First Credit Union. “The partnership with Loquat will provide our business members a modern experience tailored to meet the demands of the commercial marketplace.”

In addition to new business account opening, Loquat provides virtual debit and credit cards and enables payment and lending products to be established within minutes using a proprietary process that  reduces the time  that is historically  required to onboard new business members.

“We are looking forward to helping America First Credit Union enhance its commitment to small businesses,” said Zarina Tsomaeva, founder and CEO of Loquat. “More and more entrepreneurs are striking out on their own, and finding a financial institution that supports their business needs can be complex and time consuming. America First Credit Union will bridge that gap for them.”

Business owners can learn more about America First Credit Union at www.americafirst.com/business. 

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Media Contact:

Dave Nellis

America First Credit Union

801.827.8606

dcnellis@americafirst.com

 

About America First Credit Union

Now in its 85th year, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah, and has 115 locations across Arizona,

Technology-Centric Credit Union Branch Opens in Provo

The Provo location is the latest America First Credit Union branch to feature new video teller machine technology.

PROVO, Utah (June 13, 2024) – America First Credit Union will celebrate its new Provo branch, which has been reimagined into one of the most technologically advanced financial institution branches in the state.

The building is one of the first locations built to include the new video teller technology in the drive-through. Rather than going inside, this technology allows members to efficiently conduct business from their vehicle with an expert from the credit union over a secure video call.

“Our credit union puts member service front and center,” said Thayne Shaffer, CEO of America First Credit Union. “This includes implementing new technologies and innovations that will improve our members’ experience with us while not compromising the face-to-face service they have come to expect.”

Additional upgrades to the facility include a new façade and overall design sensibilities that are modern, open, and modular. Rather than centering the design around cubicles and a traditional teller line, branch staff and visitors can move freely throughout the space and discuss business in comfortable office nooks. This includes a private, tech-equipped office, where members can connect with offsite experts through video meeting technology.

As a part of its re-opening, the credit union is giving $5,000 each to the Boys and Girls Club of Utah County and the Provo City School District Foundation. Additionally, the new location is currently offering new member incentives, including a $100 cash bonus to new members and $50 for youth accounts. Complete information can be found online at americafirst.com.

The Credit Union opened a similar, tech-centric location in Eagle Mountain in February.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Now in its 85th year, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah, and has 115 locations across Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. It is also the fifth largest credit union in America with more than 1.4 million members, and the seventh largest in assets with more than $20 billion. America First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution dedicated to building communities and helping members do more with their money. Learn more at americafirst.com.

(Rendering courtesy Sparano + Mooney Architecture and Utah Tech University)
(Rendering courtesy Sparano + Mooney Architecture and Utah Tech University)

Utah Tech University unveils America First Performing Arts Center

ST. GEORGE, Utah — In appreciation of America First Credit Union’s continued community support, Utah Tech University revealed Friday in a special ceremony that it’s performing arts venue will be named the America First Performing Arts Center after renovations and expansion are completed near the end of 2025.

“Utah Tech University and the entire Southern Utah community are immensely grateful to America First Credit Union for their support,” said Brad Last, the university’s vice president of advancement. “Not only will the completed project draw world-class talent to Washington County, but it will also dramatically enhance the experience for residents and visitors who enjoy entertainment opportunities in the facility.”

America First Credit Union is donating $5 million to the project, which is also funded by a $28 million appropriation from the Utah State Legislature, a $1.3 million contribution from Washington County and many community donors. Highlighting the community partnership making this project possible, the renovated venue will serve as the official home of Southwest Symphony, Southern Utah Heritage Choir and Utah Tech University’s student and professional art programming.

“This newly remodeled facility will provide a forever home for the musical renaissance the Southwest Symphony, Heritage Choir, and University have sparked in the St. George area,” said Tammy Gallegos, EVP and chief strategic engagement officer at America First Credit Union. “Music and the arts bring people together — and America First Credit Union believes strongly in supporting and building community around the things we love, share, and build together.”

Renovations to the arts center include expanding the lobby, rehearsal spaces, box office, concessions and restrooms to accommodate larger audiences and a wider variety of performers. To enhance the audience experience, the plan includes adding a balcony with more seating, center aisles for easier access to seats and event space as well as upgrading lighting, sound and projection equipment throughout the building. Back-of-house renovations include expanding green rooms, make-up rooms and dressing rooms.

Efforts to expand the venue began when the Southern Utah Performing Arts Foundation sought a facility to meet the needs of the Southwest Symphony and Southern Utah Heritage Choir and proposed a partnership with the university.

Completed in 1986, the M.K. Cox Performing Arts Center, as the venue is currently named, was made possible by a generous donation from Dr. Mervyn K. and Sue Cox and has served the community as a center for performing arts for nearly four decades.

For more information about the renovation project, visit http://supafoundation.com.

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Now in its 85th year, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah, and has 115 locations across Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. It is also the fifth largest credit union in America with more than 1.4 million members, and the seventh largest in assets with more than $20 billion. America First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution dedicated to building communities and helping members do more with their money. Learn more at americafirst.com.